MANSFIELD: Geraldine “Gere” C. Wagner went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 30, 2026, at the age of 94. Gere lived a life rooted in faith, family, love, and service.
On August 6, 1954, she married the love of her life, Blake D. Wagner, Sr. Together, they built a marriage that spanned nearly 72 years. Through every season of life, they invested in their family, served God with unwavering faith, and shared in the ministry of the churches Blake pastored. Blake, her beloved husband, preceded her in death just two months earlier.
Born in Akron, Ohio, on December 11, 1931, Gere was the daughter of the late Paul and Vera (Lozier) Fulmer. She grew up with her brother, Gordon Fulmer, who also preceded her in death.
She was a lifelong learner who found great fulfillment in education, both as a student and as a teacher. After graduating from Buchtel High School in 1949, she continued her education at Cleveland State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education. She later earned her Master of Arts in literacy and reading education from The Ohio State University. Gere began her teaching career in Euclid, Ohio, before making her way to Mansfield, where she spent 21 years inspiring and educating students at Woodlawn Elementary School. She retired following a rewarding career in education, leaving behind a lasting impact on the many students whose lives she touched.
Gere and Blake shared a wonderful love of travel and adventure throughout their years together. In earlier years, they enjoyed camping with their children, family, and friends, creating many cherished memories along the way. Their travels took them throughout the United States and to countries around the world. Following their retirement, they enjoyed spending many winters in Largo, Florida. In later years, some of their favorite adventures were cruises with family, giving them the opportunity to see new places while enjoying their precious “bonus days” together.
Her greatest legacy was found in the faith she carried throughout her life and in the people she loved. She was a warm and gracious hostess and a loyal friend. She cherished time with family and delighted in the traditions and holidays that brought everyone together. Gere was an exceptional cook and a collector of recipes, many of which she passed down to her daughter, granddaughters, and others who loved the dishes she lovingly prepared.
Gere’s life was a testimony to her faith in God and to the love she poured so generously into those around her. She will be lovingly missed by her children Lynn (Michael) Wood and Blake D. (Jennifer) Wagner, Jr., grandchildren Kara (Nicholas) Smith, Blake D. (Frantzesca) Wagner III, Brenton (fiancée, Lauren Galat) Wagner, Joy (Jeremy) Sharp, and Brandon (Hannah) Wagner, great-grandchildren Valor and True Smith, Quinn and Isaiah Sharp, Leopold and Theodore Wagner, and Elliott Wagner.
Confident in God’s promise through Jesus Christ, her family rejoices that Gere has passed from death to life and now rests in the eternal presence of her Lord and Savior.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Gere’s life on Saturday, October 17, at Ontario United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., with the service following at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place immediately afterward at Ontario Community Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Main Street United Methodist Church or Ontario United Methodist Church.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Gere’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on her obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com